Helping Older Adults Stay Safe During the COVID-19 Health Crisis

Protecting ourselves from the threat of COVID-19 can seem challenging and confusing as information is continually being disseminated and changes rapidly. For seniors, it can be most imperative to remain abreast of these changes, but difficult to do so with the volume of information that is available. We want to offer the latest facts related specifically to seniors and the coronavirus to enable older adults to stay safe.

Rely on trusted sources for information

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) is committed to providing the public with up-to-date facts on the disease. Although data is continuously being gathered, it is helpful to highlight the current facts as we know them.

What we know:

• Immune systems of seniors – The immune systems of older adults are not as vigorous as those that are younger or those that don’t have underlying health conditions. Therefore, it is wise for seniors to take extra precautions to avoid contracting the disease.
• High risk for severe illness – Data shows that those over 65 have been hardest hit with the disease, including more frequent hospitalizations and admission to intensive care.

What we don’t know:

• Community spread – Knowledge is limited about the degree to which coronavirus is circulating in communities due to inadequate testing. Subsequently, it is crucial for seniors to know about developments in their local area but also be vigilant about adhering to safe health practices related to COVID-19.

Tips for Seniors to stay safe

Below is helpful advice for helping older adults to remain healthy and safe.

• Take care of your health – Follow guidelines that recommend frequent handwashing, disinfecting hard surfaces in your home, and staying away from people who are sick.
• Be prepared – It is essential to ensure you have enough grocery supplies or medications in case you must remain at home for an extended period. We are screening our caregivers 2X per week and following CDC guidelines. We also have PPE equipment to keep you and your caregiver safe.
• Be aware – It is important to know what is going on in your local area. Pay attention to reports of disease in your community. It is also vital to know your level of risk, including the state of your health, to make the best decisions for your situation.
• Limit watching news coverage – Although you want to know what is going on in your area, try not to watch news coverage related to coronavirus 24/7. This can cause anxiety and fear, which are ultimately not good for your mental health.
• Stay connected to others – Keeping in contact with loved ones can help seniors to feel less isolated during this crisis.
• Stay home – As much as possible, limit trips to places where people are still in high numbers like grocery stores, pharmacies, or other places. Consider utilizing home delivery services or curbside pick-up offered by many stores.
• Practice social distancing – We understand the challenge of remaining indoors. If you do need to venture out, try to stay six feet apart from other individuals.

At Family Tree In-Home Care, we are dedicated to serving the people in our care. Part of that devotion is being able to provide you with relevant information to keep your loved ones healthy and safe that can inform your decisions. We are here to help.

To learn more, give us a call.

Austin: (512) 337-8882

Houston: (713) 333-9991

San Antonio: (210) 764-8500

Denver:  (303) 791-3155